Skip To Main Content

Instrumental Music

A band is on stage in a concert hall.

Be a part of something great!

The Mariner Instrumental Music Program has earned a reputation of excellence. Last year, our Advanced Band earned a Superior rating at festival, the highest possible rating. 

In addition to learning to perform on a musical instrument, instrumental music students learn the essentials of teamwork, self-motivation, self-discipline, individual responsibility, and social skills that prove to be valuable life-long lessons.

Under the direction of Devon Nelson (Instrumental Music Director), Susannah Hoffman (Assistant Director) and a host of other master teachers, students are offered instruction in beginning band, advanced band, orchestra, and jazz band techniques.

Are you a student interested in joining the music program? Email me or come introduce yourself! You can find me in room 604. 

Contact me with any questions!
Devon Nelson
devonnelson@sbunified.org

A portrait of teacher Nelson wearing a blue shirt holding a trumpet and giving a thumbs up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will being in a music class affect my child’s grades? 

YES—research shows that participation in music will affect your child’s grades for the better!

On average, students who participate in school music organizations score 89 points higher on standardized tests like the SAT than students without musical coursework. 

Can 7th graders take music for the whole year? 

YES! Students can request to take 0 period PE with a year long elective during the day OR Advanced Band 0 period.

Does music matter on college applications? 

YES! 70% of the nation’s major universities report that participation in a musical organization is a higher consideration than standardized test scores for admission decisions.

A marching band in red jackets and a cheer team in uniform pose for a picture at night.

 

Courses

INTRODUCTION TO MUSIC: Learn how to play a band AND a string instrument while learning how to read music and play in an ensemble. No experience needed! Semester class for 7th graders.

ORCHESTRA: Make beautiful music like you hear in movies. Develop teamwork skills and advanced technical proficiency. Go to Disneyland! All levels are welcome. Advanced and beginning music levels offered.

BEGINNING BAND: Learn how to play a band instrument and how to read music in this entry level class. Students may choose a brass instrument (trumpet, trombone, French horn, baritone, tuba) or a woodwind instrument (flute, clarinet, alto saxophone). This class qualifies students for Advanced Band and Jazz Band. 

ADVANCED BAND (0 period): Play exciting concert band music, make great friends, and develop advanced instrument proficiency. March in the holiday parades and go to Disneyland! One year of experience playing a band instrument is required.

JAZZ BAND: Study a rigorous curriculum of jazz music, develop teamwork, and learn jazz technique. Students perform at three concerts, two jazz festivals, and community events throughout the year. One year of experience playing a jazz band instrument (trumpet, trombone, saxophone, piano, drums, bass, guitar) is required. Piano, drums, and bass are by audition only.